Sebastian Devis, the Marquess of Roth, has come to London because he has to; not because he wants to. He's been forced to join high society because he has to; not because he wants to. But if he must wed, he will do so on his own terms. Sebastian's unexpected inheritance in the form of a marquessate has put a permanent pause on his burden-free life. Now his niece is of age and needs a reputable match. But while thwarting unsuitable gentlemen, Sebastian is forced to avoid marriage-minded young ladies who are bent on ensnaring him! That is, until he meets a scrumptious spinster who awakens desires long forgotten and forces him to re-evaluate his resolve… Lady Lavinia Birch is in a whole heap of trouble. Lavinia's father is dying. Her new guardian wishes to marry her off to the highest bidder. And someone out there has discovered she has a terrible secret. Of course, all of this pales in comparison to the problems of her broken heart. Meanwhile, an infuriating yet fascinating marquess keeps popping up out of nowhere, thwarting her plans, and worse! Kissing her! Yet while a dangerous foe draws ever nearer, there is one man she instinctively trusts...and cannot seem to stay away from.